Secretary of War Hegseth dismisses impeachment threats as political moves

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth dismissed impeachment efforts against him, calling them a "sham" orchestrated by a "disgruntled, defeated congressman" and Democratic allies, according to reports from 1440wgig.iheart.com, whyn.iheart.com, and wtag.iheart.com.

Kentucky GOP Representative Thomas Massie announced plans to introduce articles of impeachment over Hegseth's role in the Iran war, which some blame for the Republican Party's midterm election losses. Massie, who lost his primary earlier this year, has been a vocal critic of President Donald Trump and holds Hegseth responsible for the unpopular conflict.

Massie stated he would not proceed with the impeachment articles if Hegseth resigns. He had previously introduced eight articles of impeachment in September, but the House did not vote on them after Speaker Mike Johnson adjourned the chamber early ahead of the midterms.

Forbes reported that Massie intends to force a House vote on the impeachment when lawmakers return to Washington. The efforts are expected to gain support from several Democrats and some Republicans who have lost confidence in Hegseth's handling of the Iran war, according to Al-Monitor.

The impeachment process requires a two-thirds majority in the Senate to convict and remove a public official, a threshold never met for a Cabinet member. President Trump has expressed support for Hegseth, stating he is doing a "very good job" and dismissing reports of considering his removal.

Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell reiterated that Hegseth is "100% committed" to his role until the end of Trump's term despite the political pressure.